Smart idea planned for 'Access' card

IN a world first, Australians could personally own a microchipped card which gives them access to services - with the Government losing all rights to the card and its contents once it is issued. This would increase privacy security for holders and prevent the Access Card becoming an identity card which police and other authorities could demand to see. That is the recommendation of a consumer and privacy advice task force certain to be adopted by the Federal Government. Human Services Minister Joe Hockey will address the findings of the task force, headed by Professor Alan Fels, at a luncheon address today.